The Story of My Ford Mysingh: A Wild Ride of Resilience

All right, here we are. I have been contemplating whether to share my story, and I believe it is essential to do so, as it will reveal the purpose behind this podcast and the goals I aim to achieve with it. Many individuals, especially young immigrants, navigate life without having the necessary information to make decisions that will benefit them in the future. They often become caught up in life's struggles and fail to reach out to others who have had similar experiences. This podcast aims to share stories so that others can learn from a variety of experiences and apply the solutions or actions taken during those situations or adopt the same principles to their circumstances.

Chapter 1: A Childhood Shaped by Loss

To begin my story, let us go back to my childhood. My earliest memory is playing with my mother and sister in the parking lot of a factory in Delmas, Haiti. I remember looking at my mother, who was beautiful with curly hair, and she was attentive, ensuring I did not wander too far. As it got darker, I walked away as I typically did because I was a very mischievous child. I saw a tiny light approaching, which turned out to be a bicycle. It hit me hard, causing the chain to come off, and the gear made a significant gash in my forehead. I yelled, and my mother came rushing to take me to the hospital while comforting me and telling me she was there for me and it all would be ok. After receiving stitches, she took me to get some sweets. Unfortunately, I do not have many other memories of spending time with my mom, as she passed away when I was very young.

My parents' relationship was fraught with conflict, often resulting in physical altercations. I would always try to cling to my mother during these fights, which left me with scars due to them throwing objects at each other. Eventually, my parents separated, which, although a relief, led my mother to enter into another relationship to support my sisters and me. Despite medical advice against pregnancy due to her anemia, my mother became pregnant again eventually, which led to serious complications after giving birth.

When my mother fell ill in August of 1993, I was with her on her deathbed, holding her hand. Her last words to me were, "I'm leaving," and shortly after, her eyes closed, her hand became lifeless in mine, and she was gone. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my life, and dealing with it was incredibly difficult, especially as a 8 year old child. Shortly after her passing, two of my aunts also passed away due to the shock of losing my mother. One died on the same evening my mom died, and another died two days later. This triple tragedy left a lasting impact on me. Additionally, My baby sister, who was placed in an orphanage, also passed away soon after. I still have recurring nightmares and have been doing therapy to address the lingering trauma.

Chapter 2: Surviving on the Streets of Port-au-Prince

A year after my mother's death, I found myself wandering the streets of Port-au-Prince, begging and attending events such as weddings uninvited due to starvation. I remember that my older cousins would use me to sneak into events as someone's kid. At other times, I would climb fences and slip through small holes, then manage to sneak into the events as older siblings or guardians. Sometimes, I would dig into garbage cans on the street of Port-au-Prince for discarded food to get through the day. During Operation Uphold Democracy, conducted by the U.S. Military in 1994 -1995, I discovered a military base located in the Industrial Park of Port-au-Prince and became fascinated by it. I would sneak into the base repeatedly, slipping under barbed wires or climbing fences, only to be escorted out by the soldiers. This cycle continued with several Haitian boys joining in.

One day, I entered the military base. Rather than ejecting me, a group of soldiers placed me on the back of their Humvee, which was quite surprising. Usually, I anticipated being escorted out, but this time, they allowed me into the base and offered me M&M candies for the first time. Grateful for their kindness, I went on to live with them at the base for an extended period.

During my stay, the soldiers provided me with food that I took back home to my family, making the military base my second home. I regularly accompanied them in their Humvees during patrols, though it is uncertain if this was standard protocol. This experience significantly impacted my adulthood, as I developed strong bonds with individuals outside my immediate family who cared for me. I hope I can reconnect with the soldiers who took me in one day.

Chapter 3: Life in the Orphanage

Eventually, the soldiers' mission came to a close, and they had to leave the country. They presented two options: I could either return to my family and resume wandering the streets or go to an orphanage they recommended. My family chose the orphanage for a better future for me, ending my time with the soldiers. I vividly recall crying and insisting that my younger sister accompany me to the orphanage despite initial plans. Ultimately, she joined me.

The orphanage's name was "The Caring and Sharing Mission." However, I have since blocked many memories due to the harsh conditions there. As a difficult child, I frequently got into trouble, leading to severe disciplinary actions from the caretakers who struggled to manage unruly children. Additionally, older children often exploit the younger ones, contributing to a challenging environment. I remember some of the older kids were responsible for cooking and plating the food. They would sometimes reduce our portions whenever I or the younger kids misbehave. That would lead us to engage in stealing and other bad behavior, which would result in severe punishments. We would get a whooping with a tree branch if we fell asleep during Bible study and wet the bed.  

One notable incident involved attempts to access supplies brought by missionaries stored in a restricted building. Alongside three other children, we attempted to dig a tunnel to reach the goods. Still, we faced severe consequences when we were discovered. Despite this, I managed to squeeze through a tiny hole to obtain items and share them with other kids, facing further reprimands upon discovery.

Food scarcity was prevalent at the orphanage, with children sometimes going days without eating due to financial constraints. Although school attendance and shelter were provided, the overall conditions were unsuitable for children's development. Consequently, I often resorted to mischief, such as sneaking into nearby gardens for bananas or selling other students' books.

Every time I engaged in such activities, I was caught and punished severely. Older children also picked on us, leading me to occasionally escape the orphanage to spend time with friends outside. Although these experiences were formative, the harsh realities of life at the orphanage remain a significant part of my childhood memories. The environment was highly stressful, the conditions were derelict, and the children were not treated well. I even have recurring nightmares of these experiences. One notable recurring nightmare is being deprived of access to food and affection.

They would occasionally let us visit another all-boys orphanage owned by a Pastor whose name has been redacted; I remember going there on several occasions where he would engage in improper sexual activities with me and some of the other boys—one particular day stuck with when he threatened not to include me to a trip to Moulin Sur Mer Beach Resort the following day if I did not add lotion and to and stroke his private parts. He took me to the bathroom in the middle of the night and engaged in sexual acts. Because his orphanage was much better regarding food and other necessities, some of the boys at our current orphanage would do anything to be there. Unfortunately, sexual abuse occurred every time I went there and for a very long time. Unfortunately, this is not the first time I have been sexually abused. When I was about 5 or 6 years old. Before my mom died, we had a babysitter who would engage in sexual activities with me. At times, I would refuse, and she would threaten to tell my father that I had been misbehaving, whom I was terrified of. The abuse continued for as long as I can remember.  

Chapter 4: Struggle for Stability

After enduring numerous mistreatments and hardships at the orphanage, I concluded that it was detrimental to my mental health and physical safety to remain there. The staff at the orphanage would administer severe punishments for any instances of misbehavior, and given my propensity for such behavior, this resulted in daily beatings. Consequently, I decided to leave the orphanage and live with my father, hoping he would welcome me.

Reflecting on my time at the orphanage, I consider it one of the most formative periods of my life. It laid the foundation for who I am today. During this time, I learned English, attended primary and elementary school, and developed lasting friendships. A pivotal figure in my upbringing was Florence Moffett, affectionately known as Mommy Moffett. She was a loving and caring individual who treated all of us like her own children, enduring many hardships to care for us. Mommy Moffett dedicated 20 years of her life to the orphanage, spending the majority of her time there and only returning to her family in the United States for brief visits. Each time she returned, she brought gifts for nearly everyone. Sadly, she passed away at the age of 82 in 2012, and I miss her dearly.

During my time at the orphanage, I also met a missionary named Pastor Maycock, who would later play a significant role in my life upon my arrival in the United States. The financial instability of the orphanage eventually led to its management being taken over by the A Hole in the Roof Foundation, which subsequently renamed it Have Faith Haiti. Mitch Albom, a renowned author from Michigan, now manages the orphanage. According to conversations with former residents and online information, the conditions and quality of life at the orphanage have greatly improved. I am pleased to know that the children are receiving proper care and education.

Nevertheless, I believe the Haitian government should take a more active role in overseeing and managing orphanages within the country to ensure that no child experiences the difficulties I faced during my time there.

When I left the orphanage to live with my dad, he refused to accept me, likely due to an incident where I took one of his old cell phones without permission during a previous visit. It might have also been because his relationship with my mom did not work out. On several occasions, he would tell me that I am just like my mom and reminded him of all the things he did not like about her. In Haiti, it is customary for multiple family members to share a rented house, dividing the space among different family groups. At the time, my father resided in one part of a rented house, while my aunt lived in another section. Due to my father's rejection, I was compelled to stay with my aunt instead.

When I relocated to the United States, my father expressed pride in having a son living abroad and began to accept me. Unfortunately, before we could solidify our relationship and build a strong bond as father and son, life had other plans. He passed away before we could become truly close, which is something I deeply regret. I wish I could have had the opportunity to be closer to him and engage in activities that we never got to do during my childhood.

I eventually left my father's house and lived with various friends, essentially becoming a nomad. Initially, I moved in with one of my aunts, but I disliked the conditions and subsequently moved in with my sister, who then got evicted from her place. I returned to live with my aunt, but after an argument, she kicked me out in the middle of the night. There was a period when I was homeless, residing at a construction site for several months until I moved in with a friend. However, the relationship did not last because he engaged in activities that I no longer wished to be part of. By that time, I had decided to abandon bad behavior. At the same time, he sought to cause trouble and engage in risky actions. Consequently, our friendship came to an end.

During a particularly challenging period of my life, I considered joining gangs in Port-au-Prince and Cité Soleil due to desperation. My friend and I learned about gang operations and even met with a gang leader for initiation. However, after learning what was required of me, I decided not to proceed and ceased contact with them. Thinking back, I am glad that I chose not to follow through with their demands.  

For several years, desperation led me to start attending events like weddings, concerts, and consulate parties all around Port-au-Prince with my cousins and many other young men. We called ourselves Gerards. We would attend these events for the food and anything else we could steal to sell. We would take unopened beers, cakes, cellphones, cameras, and any other valuables. We would then sell them to survive and pay for transportation to the subsequent events. I recall attending the wedding of a police officer once. On that day, my friend and the other uninvited young men agreed to have a great time and not steal anything to avoid going to jail.

One of the Gerard took someone's phone and left the wedding. I tried warning the phone's owner. They then asked me who invited me to the wedding and unfortunately, I was not invited. They thought I was with the same guy who took the phone. So, I pleaded that I did know the person and was not in it. Many of the police officers at the wedding started beating me up with anything they could get their hands on – Sticks, bottles, boots. One of the men pulled a gun at me and threatened to kill me if I did not tell and led him to the person who took the phone. When I told him several times that I did not know, he proceeded to hit me in the head with the gun. After what seemed like an eternity, I lost consciousness.

I woke up on the side of the road hours later, and all bloodied and with complete loss of vision in one eye. After that day, I experienced severe headaches that persisted until a doctor prescribed me medication years after I arrived in the U.S. Thinking back, a few good things did come out of being a Gerard. I had the opportunity to meet former Prime Minister Rosny Smarth, who mentored and significantly helped me. We stayed in touch over the years, and I had planned to utilize his assistance in launching my political career. Unfortunately, he passed away on January 15, 2025, at age 84. I also had the opportunity to meet the director of Pure Water for the World. I worked for them as a translator for a short time in Port-au-Prince.

On the verge of starvation, one day around 2009. I had this profound idea to make some money by being a prostitute. During the days of attending events, I would usually see young boys all around Petionville offering their bodies for cash to partygoers. The young boys would wear flashy clothes and jewelry and often brag about the amount of money they made each night. So, I made up my mind and decided that this was what I wanted to do and set my plan in motion. I got dressed on several occasions and headed out to Petionville in search of some business. I managed to speak with a few older men and negotiated my price based on what the other boys had told me they usually charge. However, they told me they typically pay 2,000 Haitian Gourdes per session, which is about $19 in today's currency. Realizing how little money to be made, I decided that it was not worth the effort. Looking back, I feel sad and ashamed of my actions, and I am relieved that I did not continue down that path.

Chapter 5: The Earthquake That Changed Everything

Eventually, I found employment at a cyber cafe, thanks to a friend. A cyber cafe in Haiti offers computers and phones for use, allowing individuals to access the Internet and make international calls for a fee. While working there, one day in 2010, a thunderous noise was followed by an intense rumbling that grew louder as the ground shook violently until everything went dark. This event turned out to be the 2010 earthquake. The ground and buildings appeared wavy, leading many of us to take refuge under desks. Fortunately, the desks supported the collapsed roof, saving numerous lives, although many did not survive.

I recall that right after the earthquake, there was a lot of dust, and many people were screaming. One individual, a client who regularly visited the cyber cafe to contact their family in the States, had their building altogether collapsed. She was on the unstable rooftop, where a large piece of concrete had crushed her leg. We did not want to leave her there, so several of us climbed onto the rooftop to provide help.

There were still aftershocks, causing buildings to sway back and forth. One of the most significant actions I took was assisting that person to safety. Immediately after we evacuated, the building collapsed entirely. It merged into a single mass. I recall struggling to comprehend and make sense of the events that had just transpired. I still feel uneasy when I hear loud noises and ride the elevator. I am terrified of long hallways because I always want to be close to the exit to be safe.

It was complete carnage. My life was never the same after that. I experienced so much death all around on the streets of Port au Prince. It was dusty. Watching people on the ground and seeing people have their legs severed in the most awkward way possible was unimaginable. In Haiti, they build houses with concrete blocks, which can be pretty sharp. I've never experienced anything like that. I don't think I'll experience something like that again. It was truly horrific.

The injuries that I noticed were traumatic: mother and child were dead together, with the father crying over them. I can recall seeing and photographing a random child's leg chopped off with one shoe still attached to it, and the kid's remaining body was nowhere to be found.

I've always been into photography and videography. I had a digital camera, and I started taking photos. You can see some of the images that I captured of the earthquake aftermath if you can stomach it. It was like something out of a horror movie from Hollywood. The severed child's leg dominated my thoughts even now.

I struggled to comprehend the level of destruction, misery, and cries for help. I, along with a few others, went from home to home to see if we could assist people. Due to the dust and the weight of debris, it wasn't easy to accomplish much individually. Even days after the earthquake, one could still see significant death, destruction, and injuries near many houses. I took numerous photos documenting these situations. My family advised me to stay safe, but I wanted to observe and document the situation personally. As a result, I have an extensive collection of photos from the aftermath of the earthquake. I continue to have nightmares about what I witnessed.

Chapter 6: An Extraordinary Escape

After a few days, I realized that living in a tent without access to running water and food was not sustainable. I considered the possibility of journalists or missionaries coming to assist. I packed a bag and went to Port-Au-Prince Airport to find work as a translator. Having grown up in an orphanage, I knew how to speak some English and had previously worked as a translator for Pure Water For The World. I aimed to offer my services to journalists or missionaries who needed translators. However, upon arrival at the airport, I found it chaotic. Many people were attempting to do the same thing as me, while others were trying to leave the country. The situation was desperate, with everything shut down and very few flights available. Most flights brought in supplies, but there were no commercial flights departing the country or coming in.

I was rejected by numerous news agencies, including CNN's Anderson Cooper. I recall a brief conversation with him when he came after the earthquake to document the events. I offered my services but was declined, possibly due to prior arrangements made before their arrival, so I was unable to secure the job. After multiple rejections, I encountered two independent journalists whose names have been changed for privacy reasons: William, who worked for a major German newspaper, and Ronald, who worked for a major Canadian news agency. They both agreed to hire me. We began working together, covering various locations throughout Port-au-Prince to assess casualties and injuries and interviewing victims. We visited hospitals and spoke with NGO leaders and staff. They reported on the severity of the situation and predicted significant fatalities due to insufficient aid. I continued collaborating with them, visiting numerous sites.

Eventually, due to the limited number of flights available to bring in people with cash, as there were no financial institutions operational, the two journalists ran out of hard currency. They were unable to pay me but decided not to leave and seek payment elsewhere. I chose to continue working with them. On Saturday, January 16, 2010, we went to a part of the country called Titanyen – where the government was digging deep holes and dumping bodies into them. I was horrified to see the holes and tractor-trailers just scooping people up and dumping them into the hole while they were decomposing. I photographed the holes and captured grisly images of bodies upon bodies. It's something that sticks with me to this day. I have nightmares of this scene: unidentified bodies mixed with concrete, fabric, and other wreckage. The tractors were scooping them up and dumping them into the holes. As I think back, that was one of the lowest points in my life working with those journalists, seeing all the carnage. It was so sad to see people who used to be alive before the earthquake being dumped on each other like they were nothing.

On the morning of Saturday, January 16, 2010, while we were heading to Titanien, the journalists learned that Hillary Clinton would be in Port-au-Prince that day. At the time, she was the U.S. Secretary of State. The goal was to cover the story After documenting the carnage at Titanyen. However, upon arrival at the airport, the employees did not allow me entry. The U.S. military, Haitian police, border patrol, and customs officials denied me access.

The two journalists I accompanied had their journalist badges and were allowed inside, whereas I did not have such a badge. After about 45 minutes, in a moment of bravery, I used a political party badge, covering some of the information on it and presenting it as if I were a journalist to gain entry. Using the fake ID, I successfully passed through security checks by U.S. soldiers, Haitian police, and customs agents. Eventually, I reached the tarmac and observed people boarding large military aircraft, likely C17 cargo planes.

Noticing that none of the people were showing passports, I decided to attempt boarding one of the planes. When I met the journalists on the tarmac, they questioned how I got through. I explained about the fake ID and expressed my intention to board one of the planes. They informed me that these flights were only for American citizens being rescued and heading to the United States and that I risked imprisonment since I lacked a passport and was not an American citizen. I acknowledged the risk but resolved to proceed nonetheless, explaining that the risk was minimal compared to the challenges that would remain if I stayed in Haiti. Having lived through years of abuse, abject poverty, and homelessness, I knew that I had to take a drastic step to achieve a better life.

I told the journalists if I called them later today, it would mean I hadn't made it, but if I called the following morning, it would mean I had arrived in America. They wished me well, and we said goodbye. Right after that, I proceeded to join the line where everyone was waiting. An elderly lady required assistance to board the plane, so I provided help. Once on the airplane, we remained seated on the floor for an extended for what seemed 45 minutes. I was fortunate to sit next to a family consisting of a mother, son, and daughter, which allowed me to blend in due to my youthful appearance at the time.

One of the soldiers was counting the passengers and had a roster of individuals who were supposed to be onboard. I was unaware that passports were not being checked because a manifest list already existed. The soldier counted three times and noticed a discrepancy. He began asking everyone for their names to verify against the list. As he approached me, an announcement over the intercom indicated that additional people would be sent to our aircraft due to insufficient room on another plane. The soldier ceased counting, and the cargo door of the C17 aircraft closed.

Chapter 7: Arrival and Survival in America

After waiting for what felt like forever, we finally took off. This was my first experience on an airplane, which had no windows, so I couldn't see outside. All I heard was the constant rumble of the engines. I had no idea where I was heading. After what seemed like an endless flight, the aircraft landed, and the cargo door opened. I was met with a frigid temperature that I had never experienced before. Unbeknownst to me at the time, we had landed at a military base in Key West, Florida—a location so distant it nearly feels detached from the United States.

I recall boarding school buses after landing, which transported us from the tarmac to a gymnasium area that resembled a basketball court. There was another challenge: disembarking from the school bus required providing a passport number. Uncertain about how to proceed, I contacted someone who had volunteered at the orphanage and lived in Detroit. He agreed to connect me with his sister, who lived in Florida, if I could remain in the U.S. Under pressure, I hastily wrote random numbers on the provided paper. Unbelievably, the officer checking the manifest marked it as correct, allowing me to leave the bus.

At the gymnasium, we were provided with food and blankets to stay warm. After gorging myself on snacks I had never seen before, my immediate thought was how to exit the facility. I observed the surroundings and noticed a group of people lining up at a table. I learned that this was Immigration and Customs, where individuals needed to have their documents validated before leaving. My determination to leave undetected was strong. Observing the exit, I saw two soldiers stationed apart, and they were requesting passports and travel documents from everyone. People presented their documents to these soldiers and then proceeded to a hallway leading to buses bound for Miami International Airport. There, additional soldiers checked passports one final time before allowing entry onto the buses.

I observed some children approaching the military personnel, stating they needed to use the restroom. The soldiers would ask for their passports and families, to which the children pointed and identified their guardians. Recognizing an opportunity, I approached the soldiers and expressed my need to use the restroom. When asked for my passport, I pointed to a woman at the immigration table, indicating she was my mother, which allowed me to pass. However, I couldn't proceed directly to the bus due to an additional checkpoint that required a passport. Instead, I headed to the restroom. There I was in the bathroom, contemplating my next move. My mind was going a hundred miles an hour. Recalling scenes from various American movies, I decided to attempt an escape from the base at night. Concerns about guard dogs, armed personnel, and potential consequences weighed heavily on my mind. I even thought of using the air ducts to get out, like I've noticed in Hollywood movies. After a few moments of contemplation and prayer for assistance, I resolved to walk straight out of the base by using my previous trick of claiming that my parents had my documents. So, I walked out of the bathroom, making my way to the exit. At the same time, Soldiers were stationed along the walls, scrutinizing everyone. Miraculously, the woman I had sat next to on the plane was exiting after presenting her documents. Approaching the soldier, I claimed my mother had my documents and pointed at the lady with her kids while they boarded the bus.

It appears a higher power was guiding me. After informing the officer that my mother had my passport and pointing to her on the bus, he permitted me to join my family. The journey from Key West to Miami International Airport felt endless. We arrived in Miami at night amidst chaos; police cars and journalists swarmed the area to capture the arrival of Americans who had survived the earthquake in Haiti. Navigating through customs and immigration officers, I managed to slip between two of them, discreetly blending into the bystander crowd, and they just closed the gap like nothing happened.

At Miami International Airport, I found myself in need of accommodation and assistance. I asked someone waiting at the curb to use their phone to call for help. I then contacted Richard whose name have been changed for privacy reasons, a business associate who had planned to collaborate with me on importing items from the United States to Haiti and sharing the profits through their sale. Richard had provided his number previously, so I reached out and asked him to pick me up from the airport. He asked me how I made Miami, to which I responded that the details were extensive and could be discussed later. After consulting with his initially hesitant wife, Richard agreed to assist. He instructed me to travel from Miami to West Palm Beach via train, as he was busy attending to something very important.

Following his directions, I returned to the Miami International Airport terminal to look for the train station, buy the ticket, and board the train. While walking and being completely lost, I encountered a TSA agent and asked him for guidance on how to get to the train station; he escorted me to the correct location. While we were walking together around the airport, I was petrified that he would find out about my story and detain me. He asked me where I was coming from and where I was heading. I told him I just landed from New York and was visiting family and friends with a New Yorker accent. He led me to the train station at Miami International Airport and helped me get a pass from the ticketing machine, then wished me a great trip. I then boarded the train and traveled to Boynton Beach Station, where Richard picked me up and took me to his house. It was the first time in my life I had been in a nice, comfortable bed.

The following morning, overwhelmed by the previous day's events, I found myself crying, grappling with the gravity of the situation. After collecting myself, I called the two journalists, William and Ronald. I informed them of my successful arrival in the United States. They expressed congratulations and happiness for my achievement. I got in contact with my friend in Detroit, and he put me in contact with his sister, who has since become my adopted mom. She helped me and guided me through the years. Without her, I would not be where I am today.

During my stay with Richard, I assisted with household chores, childcare, and driving duties. Eventually, I obtained Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and acquired a driver's license, allowing me to drive more independently. My aspirations included advancing my education and creating better opportunities for myself, goals I had previously expressed to the journalist during our conversation about my future upon reaching the United States. I aspired to return to my homeland to assist my compatriots. I expressed my desire to become the president of my country eventually.

After a brief period in the United States, I understood how quickly one can lose everything. One day, Richard and I were at a Public Storage unit in West Palm Beach, sorting through used electronics and clothing obtained from a major recycler in Miami. We intended to pack and ship these items back to Haiti for sale. As we began unloading the truck, police sirens approached. Initially, I didn't give it much thought, but soon, we were surrounded by multiple police cars. The officers exited their vehicles with guns drawn, instructing us to get on the ground. We complied and were promptly handcuffed while officers kept their weapons pointed at us.

The situation escalated as more police cars arrived, totaling approximately eleven vehicles, along with numerous officers. They searched the back of our 16-foot U-Haul truck and conducted thorough searches of our pockets while pushing our heads to the floor. During what felt like an endless questioning session, we explained that we had rented the storage unit to organize and pack electronics and clothing for shipment to Haiti. When asked about drugs or firearms, we assured them there were none.

Richard provided receipts and other proof of purchase for the items obtained in Miami. After a lengthy and tense encounter, the police decided to release us without explaining their arrival or their objectives. This incident profoundly affected us, underscoring the importance of exercising caution to avoid entanglement with law enforcement. On that day, a single misstep could have resulted in severe consequences, such as being shot or unjustly imprisoned.

Chapter 8: Finding a New Path Through Education

While working minimum-wage jobs, such as a dishwasher, I realized that higher education was essential for achieving my goals. Consequently, I enrolled in GED classes.

Transportation posed a significant challenge in West Palm Beach, Florida, due to the limited public transit options available. To address this, I purchased a used gas-powered scooter and braved inclement weather conditions to attend my classes. Upon obtaining my GED certification, I recognized the necessity of further education. I enrolled in college without even knowing how I would pay for it. To finance my associate degree, I worked as a valet attendant at Seminole Coconut Creek Casino and Fort Lauderdale International Airport, where I handled luggage. Through diligent effort and a payment plan, which I paid using credit cards, I completed my associate degree with a 4.0 GPA.

Subsequently, I applied for the Dream U.S. Scholarship, founded by Donald Graham, with help from Gabby Pacheco. Fortunately, I was awarded the scholarship which funded my bachelor's degree. Despite challenges posed by ADHD and narcolepsy, conditions affecting attention span and wakefulness, respectively, I persevered and earned my bachelor's degree, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout.

A pivotal moment in my academic journey occurred during my first college class. The instructor recognized students with the highest scores on assignments, inspiring me to aspire to this achievement. After rigorous effort, I attained the highest score, demonstrating the capabilities of a young Haitian scholar. This experience fueled my commitment to excellence, culminating in my academic success. The other student who consistently achieved the highest scores was displeased, leading to a competition between us. After receiving my first congratulations, I remained determined and earned A's on all of my assignments. Even after completing that class, I maintained my motivation to perform excellently on every assignment. Consequently, I made it my goal to sustain this level of achievement, enabling me to graduate with a 4.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, as well as three associate degrees in Global Trade and Logistics, Business Administration, and Arts. I also have certifications in Logistics and Transportation, Business Operations, and Accounting. All without ever receiving anything but an A in all my assignments and classes.

Chapter 9: Entrepreneurial Dreams and Realities

Shortly after graduating, I decided to start my own business. The business idea was to have numerous scooters available for rent in various parts of Florida, allowing people to explore the area for sightseeing, much like a Segway tour. Instead of using a Segway company for the tour, individuals could go to a hotel, rent a scooter, and then return it after sightseeing. I began laying the groundwork by acquiring a van, purchasing multiple scooters, and conducting scooter tours to generate enough revenue to expand the fleet and establish agreements with hotels, allowing them to receive a portion of the rental fees.

I carried out this plan for several months but failed to adequately plan the business. The required capital investment was significantly greater than anticipated, resulting in a rapid depletion of funds. I prioritized paying for the business van to keep operations running, which resulted in my car being repossessed. Eventually, I retrieved the car from the bank. Still, the business did not last long due to a significant event in my life.

Chapter 10: Love and Marriage Amidst Challenges

During this period, I was an alumnus of the Dream U.S. Scholarship, which had a Facebook group. I actively participated in the group, answering and asking questions. I noticed one particular member who was very helpful and caring towards others. Her kindness caught my attention, and I felt compelled to reach out. After seeing her photo on Facebook, I commented, "How did you get so beautiful, young lady?" Initially, there was no response, making me question my approach. However, several hours later, I received a private message saying, "Thank you. You're so nice." That day, I spoke on the phone with the young lady, Sadhana, who later became my wife. We talked for hours, getting to know each other. By the end of the conversation, I felt that we were already in a relationship.

I informed her that I planned to leave Florida and move to Washington, D.C., as she had expressed discomfort with a long-distance relationship due to our being in different states. I said I would give up my condo and relocate to be with her. She responded that this decision was too hasty. Despite her concerns, I felt prepared for change, as I am not typically afraid of making significant transitions. In previous situations, such changes have had mixed results. In my wife's case, it turned out positively. After discussing this further, we agreed to meet following her classes and final exams. During my visit to D.C., she showed me around the city, and by the end of the trip, we arranged to live together. I returned to Florida to sell my business. Interestingly, after I closed my business, companies like Lime and Bird began introducing scooters, allowing people to rent them for short trips to places.

I am not claiming to be the first person to conceive this business idea; however, it was the model I had planned. I lacked the capital necessary to sustain and advance it. I decided to move to Washington D.C. with my then-girlfriend, now wife, without any regrets.

When I returned to Florida after visiting her in D.C., I packed everything up, rented a U-Haul, and placed my car on a U-Haul trailer. I sold my business to someone else and then moved to Washington, D.C. Initially, Sadhana and I had a great relationship. I remember she called her mom to tell her that she was dating me, but they already knew me as a friend; they didn't know we were in a relationship. Unfortunately, they were not welcoming and were very prejudiced, primarily because of the color of my skin—I am Black. They did not approve of our relationship at all.

I recall Sadhana's mom calling us in tears, saying things like, "You did everything right; we raised you well, but now you are throwing your life away. Why are you doing this to us? You shouldn't be in a relationship with someone like that." My wife and I recently celebrated our eighth anniversary, and our relationship has grown strong; we now have a daughter. I'm not sure why her parents were not supportive back then, but they said some hurtful things. Some of it could be described as racist. There is a tendency in minority cultures to judge people based on the color of their skin. Even though they are part of a minority group, they often judge others harshly. I faced this judgment personally. Eventually, things worked out, and I helped Sadhana navigate the situation. Her uncles and other family members would call, asking why she was doing this to her mom and telling her she needed to leave me.

After what seemed like forever, my wife's parents backed off, and I was able to visit them. They have since welcomed me into their family and genuinely love me now. I have no hard feelings against them. Every time they call, they always want to talk to me, and I love talking to them as well. It's been an incredible journey for my wife and me.

Chapter 11: Navigating Mental Health Battles

I eventually got a job in Washington, D.C., working for Avis Budget Group. I recall that it was highly challenging to get work done. I didn't know what was happening to me; I was always extremely sleepy and couldn't focus. I would often sleep in my car or fall asleep at my desk. At that time, I didn't know I had narcolepsy, a condition that causes sleep attacks. You could feel perfectly fine one moment and then suddenly fall asleep or feel drained of energy. I was often irritated, and it became hard to exist. Life was nearly impossible without medication, but back then, I didn't have any treatment. I was trying to power through. I'm genuinely grateful to my wife for staying with me and supporting me during that difficult time. During lunch breaks, I would sleep in my car, trying to recharge, but it only helped so much. I recall one day when I was caught sleeping at my desk, and my coworkers, unaware of what was happening, filmed me for hours and sent the video to my manager. When my manager called me in to talk about it, I didn't know what to say. I admitted that I had fallen asleep without understanding why. I ended up getting reprimanded for it.

Chapter 12: Moving to Canada: New Beginnings and Setbacks

While working for Avis Budget Group, unfortunately, President Trump announced the end of TPS for Haitians and the end of DACA. My wife and I had already established our lives in Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, Virginia, and we wanted to stay in the U.S. The end of those programs was devastating. I couldn't imagine having spent so much time earning my degree and advancing my career only to be forced into minimum-wage jobs, unable to work as a supply chain manager, which I had trained for.

While at Avis Budget Group, I would often look at maps of the Canadian border to see how I could cross Canada illegally as an alternative. Fortunately, we didn't have to do that. We contacted a good friend who reached out to some connections in Canada. Due to my bachelor's degree in supply chain management and my work experience, they were able to develop a solid plan for my wife and me to move to Canada.

They initiated all the processes for us, and I secured a job in Canada. The company even covered the cost of my relocation. I remember my wife and I preparing everything: gathering documents and packing our belongings. We rented a U-Haul van to move our things, and I drove to the Canadian border. It was an emotional moment for us because we knew we would be unable to see her parents or some of my cousins and friends in the U.S. for some time. It was a tough decision to make.

Eventually, we moved to Canada. I crossed the border in that U-Haul, and I had to return multiple times to pack up everything we owned. The first month in Canada was particularly challenging. My wife wasn't with me; she was still back in the U.S., and I found myself alone in a new country, unsure of what to do. Unfortunately, Canada isn't always very welcoming to newcomers.

The issue is that the system is not designed to give newcomers a head start. It's challenging to find housing, open a bank account, and obtain credit. Everything you attempt to do is ten times harder because you are new to the country. Some landlords will outright deny your application to rent their property simply because you are a newcomer to Canada. It was a challenging experience for us. Eventually, my wife joined me after we had settled in, and we have been living in Canada ever since. Today, I am a proud Canadian citizen, and I am very excited about the opportunities this country has provided us.

I worked for Maple Leaf Foods, a fantastic company where I enjoyed working with the people. I made some great friends there who helped me understand the corporate mindset and offered valuable advice. I had some excellent managers at Maple Leaf Foods. However, my narcolepsy began to take a toll on my work. I remember moments when I would fall asleep at my desk while trying to complete assignments. It was part of my narcolepsy, where I would go through the motions automatically but not realize I was doing things incorrectly. Looking back, I know I should have been more aware of my condition.

I consulted with my primary care doctor and subsequently saw a sleep specialist, who diagnosed me with narcolepsy. To this day, I am on medication to manage it. However, I still experience unexpected sleep attacks, brain fog, irritability without cause, and even hallucinations. It's been quite a journey. Additionally, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and ADHD, which adds another layer of complexity. I need to take medication to stabilize my mood. Still, one of the side effects is increased sleepiness, which conflicts with my narcolepsy.

I'm currently taking medication for narcolepsy, which helps me stay awake. Still, it's a stimulant that can also trigger bipolar episodes. Since starting this medication, I've been struggling to maintain a delicate balance between experiencing manic episodes and feeling sleepy and tired, making it hard to function. My doctors and I have been working closely together to find that balance, and I am grateful to Maple Leaf Foods for their support during these challenging times. I had to take multiple disability leaves and be absent from work often to recalibrate my medication, as my doctors recommended that I stay off work. They have been very accommodating, helping me navigate this difficult period in my life.

Chapter 13: The Rise and Fall of a Business Dream

In 2023, I started a new business venture based on a promising and innovative idea. The concept involved processing returned electronics for prominent companies, including Amazon and Best Buy. Our company receives returned electronics from customers, performs reconditioning and grading, and captures high-resolution photographs and 360-degree videos of the products. These processed items could then be shipped to the companies' warehouses for resale or sold through our showrooms and e-commerce store to bargain hunters. We would handle the donation or disposal of low-grade items on behalf of the companies for a nominal fee, thereby saving them substantial amounts in reverse logistics costs and mitigating electronic waste. Additionally, our company would manage, sell, and donate surplus assets, such as electronics and IT equipment, to major organizations, including banks and technology firms, for a fee. 

I established our logistics network by entering into a contract with a major logistics company to oversee the inbound and outbound movement of products. Further, I secured a showroom located at a prime intersection in downtown Toronto. I also arranged a meeting with the Vice President of Technology at TD Bank to discuss a pilot program.

While setting up the company, I experienced manic episodes that impacted my planning. I overestimated my abilities and felt invincible, convinced the business couldn't fail. I had unrealistic plans to secure millions in investments quickly. Consequently, the $200,000 from our friend for 7.5% of the company, along with a $250,000 loan from our mentor, was spent rapidly. Our mentor then provided $45,000 to keep operations running for a few more months.

Our entire savings were quickly depleted. I even spent $30,000 of the savings we had set aside for our daughter. In total, I wasted close to $1 Million. I had several employees that I could not pay. Although many of the employees were kind enough to allow me some time to pay several months of back wages, others were not that understanding. One of them even reported me to the government. I managed to pay all of my employees a few months later. Rather than growing the business slowly, my bipolar manic episode created a false sense of reality, leading to the business's eventual collapse with hundreds of thousands in loan and credit card debts. Dealing with the downfall was incredibly hard. I had contemplated suicide by jumping off our 54th-floor balcony at the height of a depressive episode that followed my manic episodes.

Chapter 14: Fatherhood and Finding Purpose

We've decided to pause our business endeavors because I recently became a father, a life-changing experience that fills me with joy. My daughter is truly amazing. However, I found myself in a challenging situation with Maple Foods, where I once worked. I had submitted a request for paternity leave to be there for my daughter. Unfortunately, the company was facing significant difficulties. A major leadership overhaul led to the layoffs of many VPs and the consolidation of multiple departments. Regrettably, the position I had just been promoted to was eliminated.

Having recently lost my job, my wife had to terminate her independent contract employment to take maternity leave. This left me feeling utterly lost during a particularly dark time in November. To add to the mix, my daughter was born on my birthday—a true miracle that brought a spark of light into my life. Since her arrival, I have found it easier to push aside the struggles I was facing. There were moments when these challenges felt overwhelming, and I contemplated suicide. I thought there was no way out as everything seemed to be collapsing around me. I was burdened with hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt, unemployed, and about to welcome my daughter into the world.

I recall the painful times when I sought support from my dad, only to feel abandoned, leading me to consider ending it all during one of my visits to his place. Thankfully, he wasn't there, which prevented me from going through with that plan. There were other instances, too, but it's clear that despite the despair, the birth of my daughter has ignited a newfound hope within me.

Back in 2020, I had to visit my psychiatrist to address some depression and anxiety I was dealing with. I told him about my trauma and my past. He told me that he was amazed that I had accomplished so much despite everything I had gone through and that he had never seen someone overcome so much yet thrive. Little did we know, my unaddressed trauma was about to catch up with me. In 2021, I experienced a manic episode that was so intense I lost all the will to live. My wife had to leave the house and stay at a hotel for a few days due to safety concerns. I contemplated taking a large amount of medication to end it all. Still, for some reason, I fell asleep before I could do it. When I woke up the next day, I saw all the pills scattered all over the bed.

When I lost my job weeks before my wife gave birth, those intense suicidal feelings returned. This is something that can happen with bipolar disorder; many people take their own lives because they feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. Fortunately, I had the support of good therapists, a caring psychiatrist, and a strong support system that helped me navigate these challenging situations, especially with the arrival of my daughter.

Now, I feel like I have something to live for—my daughter. I have a purpose: to raise her well and build a family with my wife.

Chapter 15: Resilience and the Future: Sharing My Story

I'm sharing my story because I believe it's essential for young people to understand what others are going through or have gone through. Understanding these struggles can help them learn how to cope and apply different problem-solving strategies that have worked for others in similar situations. While everyone's experience is unique, there are valuable lessons to be learned from one another's stories.

I started AboveStatus— to share stories like mine and those of others I've interviewed. Our journeys can provide insight and hope. I am on a mission to help my community by sharing these experiences. I aspire to hold a position of authority to contribute to changing my country, as Haiti has struggled for too long. I have witnessed the miseries and aftermath of disasters, and I believe Haiti deserves better. My ultimate goal is to become the President of Haiti or be in a position of authority and guide the country in the right direction. To achieve this, I plan to pursue a career in politics.

One of the reasons I started my podcast is to shape my opinions, share my thoughts, express my political views, and engage with politicians, professionals, young immigrants, and anyone who can help me better understand the world around me. This way, I can apply political solutions to the complex problems my nation is currently facing. Haiti needs someone to help build its future, and as a businessman and supply chain manager, I want to be one of those people.

I envision entering political life soon and have given myself four to ten years to hone my political skills while utilizing this platform for positive change. I believe this podcast can help others understand the struggles of various individuals and empower them to transform their own lives. Additionally, the podcast will provide me with exposure that can open doors for launching my political career.

Epilogue: Reflections on Family and Time

I often ask a question on the show: if I could travel forward or back in time, which period would I choose and why? For me, I would want to go back to a time before my mom died. I wish I could spend more time with her, especially recalling that night when I got hit by the bicycle. At that moment, I remember her compassion and love for me, as well as her unwavering support. I would love to go back and get to know her better. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to do that. Another time I would like to visit is before my dad passed away. I wish I could go back to build a stronger relationship with him. Although we had misunderstandings and didn't have a good relationship, I regret not being more welcoming and forgiving. I realize now that everyone goes through challenges in life and that people can change. My dad was genuinely reaching out to me, but I kept him at arm's length. I wish I had a better understanding of him. If I were allowed to go back in time, I would choose two periods: to spend more time with my mom and to strengthen my relationship with my dad.

Reflecting on my life and the challenges I have faced and overcome, I would not alter a single aspect of it. These experiences, regardless of their nature, have contributed to my resilience, compassion, and empathy. I am grateful for every experience that has shaped me, and for all the support I have received along the way.  

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my dear and supportive wife, Sadhana, and my adoptive mother, Adrienne, who has been a guiding light in my life. I also thank my mentor, whose unwavering belief in me has been invaluable, as well as my friends and family, who have come to my aid countless times.

As I turn 40, I recognize that there are many more years ahead. I intend to continue being a loving father and husband and to contribute positively to my community, striving to be a catalyst for change.

I want to share my story not to invoke sympathy or to have people say, "Oh, he's been through so much." I share it to show that, regardless of the curveballs life throws your way and the challenges you face, you need to keep pushing forward. It's essential to have a purpose to work toward and to keep that goal in mind as obstacles arise. Instead of saying, "This is happening to me right now, and it's frustrating," focus on your purpose and objective. When things don't go according to plan, keeping that goal in mind provides the energy to keep moving forward.

I am sharing my journey to help young immigrants learn from the experiences of others, including professionals and politicians. I also aim to help guide my country toward a brighter future. This is my story. Thank you so much for listening.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey!

Now, let's join forces to create meaningful change—your support can help turn resilience into a lasting impact!

Myford@abovestatus.org

Abovestatus.org

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Photos Showcasing the Journey of My Life